Mariatu Kamara draws from harrowing experiences as a child victim of war in Sierra Leone to illuminate the profound impact of conflict. Her memoir chronicles this journey, offering a powerful testament to resilience. Now a student and advocate, she dedicates her voice to raising awareness as a UNICEF Special Representative. Kamara's compelling narrative underscores the critical need to address the devastation of war on children and her future aspirations include establishing foundations to support those affected.
As a child in a small rural village in Sierra Leone, Mariatu Kamara lived peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Rumors of rebel attacks were no more than a distant worry. But when 12-year-old Mariatu set out for a neighboring village, she never arrived.